Dylan Dinn (center) and her parents Edward Dinn and Santa Gonzales prepare for the next session during freshman orientation.

Moving your child almost 500 miles away to go to college might worry most parents. Corpus Christi native Dylan Dinn’s parents were no different. Yet, after visiting UT Tyler and learning more about the classes, professors and campus life, those concerns have been comforted.

“I don’t like that she will be seven hours away. I worry a lot, but I do like the school, its resources, and the people here are very friendly,” said her father Edward Dinn, at the June 17 freshman orientation.

Dinn and her parents have made several trips to Tyler to tour the university, receive academic advisement, register for classes and attend orientation. Their next trip will be to get Dylan settled into her apartment.

Dylan is ready to begin the next phase of her academic life, which for her has always been a given.

“My older brother did not go to college, but for me it was not a question. I told myself that I had to go and go all the way. I want to get my master’s and my doctorate so I can teach history at a university,” said Dylan.

Coming from a large 5-A high school, Dylan was drawn to UT Tyler’s 17-to-1 student to professor ratio.

“I didn’t want to be a number. I want to have that close-knit relationship with my professors,” said Dylan.

Even though the distance will mean an adjustment for them, Dylan’s parents are proud of her decision to attend UT Tyler.

“I feel very confident that my daughter will receive a quality education here at UT Tyler. I am glad she chose Tyler. I’m very impressed with it,” said her mother, Santa Gonzales.